LONDON — Retired U.S. Army Gen. Tommy Franks, who oversaw military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, will receive an honorary knighthood Tuesday in recognition of his “inspirational leadership,” officials said.

Britain’s Ministry of Defense said Defense Secretary Geoff Hoon will make Franks a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in a private ceremony.

Because he is American, Franks cannot call himself “sir” — a distinction reserved for British citizens — but can use the initials “KBE” after his name.

“Gen. Franks has been a sterling friend to the United Kingdom during a period of extraordinary turbulence in world affairs,” the ministry said in a statement.

“This award is to recognize his exceptional and inspirational leadership of British forces during operations both in Afghanistan and Iraq.”